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Nuance to Merge with MobileVoiceControl

The merger will bring to Nuance's speech and imaging software the ability for consumers to dictate and send e-mail, text messages, dial a contact and perform other functions entirely with their voice.

Speech and imaging software developer Nuance Communications announced plans on Dec. 6 to join forces with MobileVoiceControl in a bid to provide better speech-enabled applications in the wireless industry.

MobileVoiceControl brings to Nuance a complete mobile service with speech-enabled search and communications applications that allow consumers to dictate and send e-mail, text messages, dial a contact and perform other functions entirely with their voice.

"MobileVoiceControls service enhances the accessibility and utility of mobile devices, and by integrating the advanced speech technology of our Nuance Mobile product portfolio, can truly become a transformative consumer service," said Paul Ricci, Nuances chairman and CEO, in a prepared statement.

The companies would not disclose the financial terms of the deal. However, the acquisition has been approved by the boards of directors of both companies and is expected to close before the end of the quarter.

Further reading

The move is the latest by Nuance as it continues to make investments in mobile speech technology. Nuance recently announced a deal with The Pantech Group, the second largest mobile phone company in South Korea, to use Nuances RealSpeak Mobile SF to power Pantechs PG-6200, PG-8000 and PG-3700 mobile phones in multiple languages, including Russian, English and Mandarin.

The companies said the merger offers many advantages to customers in the future. For example, while MobileVoiceControl partners with Gannett Co. to allow users to access USA Todays real-time, national content and advertising, Nuance expects to make local content from other news outlets, both print and broadcast, available through the MobileVoiceControl application.

In addition, Nuance intends to make new MobileVoiceControl services available to its existing mobile partners for private labeling and redistribution.

"The combination of our two companies offers MobileVoiceControl direct access to Nuances vast technology portfolio, global resources and carrier relationships, allowing us to further capitalize on the success weve had since our launch earlier this year and accelerate our growth into new areas," said Stephen S. Burns, president and founder of MobileVoiceControl.

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